Using technology at ODU Bioelectrics to protect against COVID-19
By Hannah Kearse
ODU Center for Bioelectrics is using advanced technology to detect temperatures of personnel and visitors automatically during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since navigating a pandemic is new to most of us, ODU Center for Bioelectrics brought in android based technology as their first line of defense against the spread of COVID. While most workplaces are currently using handheld temperature screeners to detect temperatures, ODU Bioelectrics is using a touchless temperature and mask scanner kiosk that detects body temperature and the presence of face mask to try to prevent potential contact with any infected persons as much as possible.
Dr. Gymama Slaughter, Executive Director of the Center for Bioelectrics said, "Our top priority at ODU is to keep all our constituents healthy and safe while we continue to make great strides in tackling human and environmental health challenges that impact our community."
The temperature reader works by first scanning the face for the body temperature. If the temperature is normal, the scanner grants personnel access to swipe their RFID badge for entry through the door. The scanner will not allow entry if a fever is detected (100 degrees F or higher). Entry is also not permitted if the person is not wearing a mask. With the touchless kiosk, staff does not have to directly interact to take temperatures therefore minimizing potential exposure to the virus. There are two scanners located in the facility, one on each Bioelectrics floor, for ease of use by personnel.
The touchless scanner kiosk is proving to be a vital tool in helping ensure that persons with a fever are not granted access to the Center facilities, and to keep the ODU community safe and infection free. With COVID numbers currently on the rise again, the Center has made it clear that they understand the importance of remaining diligent with temperature scanning, social distancing, and frequent hand washing. Throughout the facility, you will find hand sanitizing stations as well as mask requirement and social distancing signs.
The staff at the Center expressed their hope is that these efforts will minimize any spread of COVID-19 throughout the ODU community and that these precautions make visitors and personnel feel safe and comfortable as they continue to visit as well use the facilities for their research.